Charles Sanders

While Google Ads can be an effective advertising channel, especially for larger businesses with dedicated resources to manage the complexity of the platform, I would argue that a more targeted approach is often preferable. Understanding your audience at a granular level and meeting them where they are can lead to more authentic connections and potentially lower customer acquisition costs (CAC). For mid-sized or smaller businesses, the investment and expertise required to fully leverage the suite of Google Ads tools may outweigh the benefits. In these cases, focusing on direct, targeted outreach through channels where your audience is actively engaged could be a more cost-effective strategy.

Setting healthy boundaries for work responsibilities is crucial for maintaining a sustainable work-life balance and avoiding burnout. From personal experience, I've learned that clearly communicating boundaries and expectations early on is key to fostering a productive and respectful work environment. Moreover, setting boundaries early on can prevent misunderstandings and unrealistic expectations from taking root. It's much easier to reinforce established boundaries than to try to reset expectations after they've become ingrained. Implementing boundaries is an ongoing process between all parties - it's not a one direction.

It's often forgotten that you are now a single entity beyond just the "IT" skill(s). You must also be committed to all other aspects of self management and client management. This may seem obvious, however I can tell you that one of the biggest feedback items from clients is often not the specific technical task/skills it's all the other interpersonal skills and overall management of the engagement from meetings to invoicing. You are now all roles in a single entity.

My journey in IT business consulting began with meaningful engagement through volunteer work with non-profits. This initial investment of time underscored the transformative power of technology and shaped my expertise. Following this, building a robust network through engagements with professionals and showcasing my work on dedicated platforms became crucial steps in establishing my professional identity. Through a personal website, a public social medium, a comprehensive portfolio, and a refined resume, you should aim to highlight your skills, experience, and leadership abilities, contributing effectively to your discipline of IT.